How much does Lionel Messi earn, and what drives his immense wealth? As one of football’s greatest icons, Messi has built a financial empire through record-breaking salaries, lucrative endorsements, and smart investments.
His current Inter Miami contract, combined with a 10% ownership stake, sets him apart from other athletes. Beyond football, his lifetime Adidas deal and various business ventures continue to grow his fortune.
Let’s explore Lionel Messi net worth, his salary, earnings, and financial strategies that keep him among the richest athletes in the world.
Lionel Messi Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Lionel Andrés Messi |
| Popular Name | Lionel Messi |
| Birth Date | June 24, 1987 |
| Age (as of 03/02/2025) | 37 years old |
| Birthplace | Rosario, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Ethnicity | Italian, Spanish descent |
| Education | La Masia (Barcelona Youth Academy) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Antonela Roccuzzo |
| Children | Thiago, Mateo, Ciro |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Rodrigo, Matías, María Sol |
| Parents | Jorge Messi, Celia Cuccittini |
| Height | 1.70 meters (5 ft 7 in) |
| Net Worth | $850 million |
| Source of Wealth | Football salary, endorsements, investments |
What is Lionel Messi’s Net Worth in 2025?
Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has built an impressive fortune throughout his career. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $850 million.
His earnings stem from his football contracts, lucrative endorsement deals, and strategic investments.
Compared to his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who signed a $1 billion deal with a Saudi Pro League team, Messi took a different financial route, opting for Inter Miami, where he holds a 10% ownership stake.
His move to Major League Soccer has significantly boosted his income, alongside endorsement deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and other global brands.
Related People & Companies
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Neymar Jr.
- Kylian Mbappé
- David Beckham
- Adidas
- FC Barcelona
- Paris Saint-Germain
- Inter Miami CF
- FIFA
- Forbes
For more insights into the wealthiest figures in sports and entertainment, explore the highest-earning celebrities.
Lionel Messi Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
His Current Salary and Contracts
Messi’s current salary at Inter Miami stands at $60 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid footballers in the world.
However, what sets his contract apart is the 10% ownership stake in Inter Miami, a deal that could be worth $200 million or more in the future.
Additionally, Messi benefits from a revenue-sharing agreement with Apple for MLS Season Pass subscriptions, further adding to his earnings.
His Biggest Contracts Throughout His Career
Messi’s earnings have evolved dramatically over the years. His highest-paying contract came during his Barcelona days when he earned $168 million per year under his 2017 contract.
Other major contracts include:
- Paris Saint-Germain (2021-2023) – $75 million per year
- Rejected Saudi Pro League Offer (2023) – $1 billion for multiple seasons
How Does He Make Money? His Wealth Sources
Messi’s income is divided into three major sources:
- Football Salaries – Over $1.2 billion earned in wages throughout his career.
- Endorsements – $70 million annually from Adidas, Pepsi, and more.
- Business Investments – 10% ownership of Inter Miami, real estate in Miami and Barcelona.
His Sponsorships and Endorsement Deals
Messi has been a global ambassador for Adidas since 2006, signing a lifetime contract similar to Michael Jordan’s deal with Nike. Other major endorsements include:
- Pepsi
- Mastercard
- Saudi Arabia Tourism ($25 million deal)
- Gatorade
How His Wealth Compares to Other Footballers
Messi’s financial success is often compared to Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé. While Ronaldo’s Saudi deal pays $400 million per season, Messi has focused on long-term investments like his Inter Miami ownership.
His Investments and Business Ventures
Messi has made smart financial moves beyond football. His real estate portfolio includes a $7 million luxury condo in Miami and properties in Barcelona. His 10% stake in Inter Miami is his biggest business venture to date, potentially worth hundreds of millions in the coming years.
His Financial Impact on Clubs and Leagues
Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami drastically increased ticket sales, sponsorships, and MLS viewership worldwide. His transfer from Barcelona to PSG and later to MLS has had a significant financial impact on each club.
- Barcelona – Record-breaking revenue from jersey sales and sponsorships.
- PSG – Increased global reach and commercial success.
- Inter Miami – Boosted MLS revenue, ticket demand, and Apple TV subscriptions.
How His Earnings Have Evolved Over Time
Messi’s journey from earning less than $100,000 per year in his early Barcelona days to $168 million annually at his peak is remarkable. Over time, he transitioned from relying solely on salaries to strategic investments that ensure his wealth continues growing even after retirement.
The Future of His Wealth and Financial Legacy
With his Inter Miami stake, global endorsements, and investments, Messi is on track to increase his wealth post-retirement. Potential future roles include:
- Club owner or executive at Inter Miami
- Global brand ambassador
- Investor in sports businesses
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s wealth is a combination of elite football earnings, endorsements, and smart investments. With his Inter Miami ownership and Adidas lifetime deal, his financial future looks brighter than ever.
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